Update: Investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct at UN Women

Following our earlier statement on our website, the investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct involving a UN Women staff member by the Office of Audit and Investigations (OAI) of UNDP is nearing its completion and UN Women continues to urge for the speedy finalization of the investigation process.

UN Women continues to ensure that the case is investigated thoroughly and receiving the priority it deserves. We recognize the gravity with which such cases should be treated and have taken the allegations very seriously at every stage.

Ending all forms of sexual and gender-based violence is at the heart of UN Women’s mission. As recent events have shown, the United Nations and UN Women are not immune from allegations of sexual misconduct. We are particularly committed to placing the rights and dignity of victims at the forefront of our response efforts and have been in contact with the reported victims of this case and offered our support and assistance.

UN Women will continue to implement its zero-tolerance policy and will take all necessary actions that are within its purview. Once the report setting out the findings of the investigation is shared with UN Women, if the facts warrant it, UN Women will initiate a disciplinary process under the UN Women Legal Policy for addressing non-compliance with UN Standards of Conduct. The disciplinary process includes charging the subject, reviewing their response and, if appropriate, imposing a sanction. Steps may then be taken to refer the matter to national authorities if warranted.

UN Women aims to be as transparent as possible while ensuring that the integrity of the investigative, and disciplinary process, if any, is safeguarded. For this reason, we cannot comment on any further specifics of the case, as that could undermine the accountability process.

Anyone with information regarding sexual misconduct or other wrongdoing relating to UN Women programmes or involving UN Women personnel is strongly encouraged to report this information through the investigations hotline or the online form which since January 2018 is managed by our new investigation service provider the Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) of the United Nations.